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Other forms of Vitamin B are folic acid and folate. Folate is needed for new cell production and maintenance. This is especially important during times of quick cell growth during pregnancy and infancy.(1*) To make the cells' building blocks, RNA, and DNA, a supply of folate is required.(2*)Folate also aids in repairing DNA, and it is thought to guard against cancer.(3*)

Both children and adults require folate for the normal production of red blood cells. Failing to produce enough red blood cells, or if the cells formed are irregular, may result in a condition called anemia.(4*)

Anemia occurs when your blood has a lower than a normal number of oxygen-rich red blood cells. If the body lacks a supply of folate, it can lead to the formation of "giant" red blood cells which do not possess the needed amount of hemoglobin required to carry oxygen.(5*)

Other symptoms of folate deficiency include weight loss, loss of appetite, diarrhea, behavioral disorders, irritability, heart palpitations, headaches, sore tongue, and weakness.(6*) Pregnant women with folate deficiency are more likely to give birth to premature infants, children with neural tube defects and babies that are low in weight.(7*) Anemia in an adult can be a symptom of advanced folate deficiency.(8*)